Pending Giants free agent Jason Pierre-Paul wants to match or exceed his defensive linemate Olivier Vernon‘s five-year, $85.5MM contract, a source tells Ralph Vacchiano of SNY.
[RELATED: Top 3 Offseason Needs — New York Giants]
Pierre-Paul has made significant progress since his infamous fireworks mishap in 2015, and was seemingly back to his old self during the 2016 campaign. In 12 starts, JPP managed seven sacks, finished 14th in the league with 24 quarterback hurries, and graded as the NFL’s 13th-best edge rusher (one spot ahead of Vernon), according to Pro Football Focus.
Given that he’s already asserted his refusal to accept another one-year deal, Pierre-Paul could certainly land a hefty contract on the open market, and even come close to Vernon’s $40MMÂ in guarantees. However, JPP is now three years older than Vernon was when he signed his mega-deal in 2016, and age is typically an important factor in long-term pacts. Clubs could be unwilling to lock Pierre-Paul up into his early-thirties given his recent injury history (the hand notwithstanding, JPP required surgery for a groin ailment at the end of last season).
Vernon is already the highest-paid defensive end in the league by a wide margin, meaning Pierre-Paul would claim that title if he’s able to surpass Vernon’s $17MM yearly average.
Vernon isn’t worth that money and JPP won’t be either
Yikes…I think that JPP is more worthy of big money than Vernon…however, being 3 years older and with them already overpaying Vernon with that ridiculous contract, I could see him in another uniform next year
He might want it, but he won’t get it
What’s he supposed to say? He wants 13th best DE money?
JPP can walk…… Sign Hankins is a must…..
He’s a great player but I let him walk. Too much money. Can’t have him and Vernon eating up all that cap space. Resign Hankins instead, draft a DE in the middle rounds, and bring in a lower tier free agent. Bargain basement type.